Kuchipudi workshop with Natarang Dance Group, Poland 2024
As cliché as it sounds, it’s never too late to begin anything. This holds true for learning Kuchipudi—or any discipline, for that matter. Is it easier to learn as a child? Absolutely. But does that mean adults cannot grasp Kuchipudi at all? Not at all.
To understand this better, let’s consider why children pick up new skills more easily. A child approaches new experiences with wonder, curiosity, and a sense of adventure. They’re open to failure because they haven’t yet developed the fear of judgment or the burden of expectations. As adults, however, life’s experiences often make us more guarded. We tend to draw conclusions too quickly and operate from fear—or worse, from bitterness.
But what if we could channel that childlike mindset into our adult learning journeys? Approaching Kuchipudi (or any new skill) with curiosity, positivity, and a sense of play can transform the process. Setting goals is essential, yes—but not in a way that stifles spontaneity or paralyzes you with fear. Goals should hold you accountable to your practice, not become rigid benchmarks that overshadow the joy of learning.
Reclaiming Your Body’s Potential
Our bodies aren’t made of bricks; they’re dynamic, living systems of tissue and fibers. While it’s true that as we age, our muscles can become stiffer, this isn’t a permanent state. With conditioning, consistent movement, and proper training, we can restore flexibility, strength, and agility—allowing us to dance freely.
Similarly, with a good diet and regular practice, we can improve our cardiovascular endurance, which is crucial for stamina in Kuchipudi. Age isn’t the obstacle we think it is; the body’s plasticity remains with us as long as we’re alive.
Embracing Failure
At Kritya, we teach that learning is about failing better each time. Without failure, there is no progress. Yet as adults, we often stick to what we’re already good at, avoiding new challenges. Failure becomes such a foreign concept that when we finally encounter it, we’re tormented by it.
But failure isn’t the end of the world—it’s a sign that you’re pushing boundaries. In class, you’re meant to stumble, fall, and try again. Mastery doesn’t come from avoiding failure; it comes from embracing it.
Learning Together: Adults and Kids
At Kritya, we don’t separate classes by age—we separate them by experience level. This means adults and kids often train together, and this creates a unique dynamic. Adults get to absorb the boundless energy, curiosity, and adventurous mindset that kids naturally bring to class.
Some of our adult students have achieved pre-professional levels in Kuchipudi and are now part of the Kritya Ensemble, performing at professional venues. This is possible because we treat every student—regardless of age—with the same potential and capacity.
We also focus on strengthening and conditioning the body, ensuring that even those who haven’t moved in this way before can prepare for the intensity of Kuchipudi. Our approach helps adults shed self-judgment and overthinking, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the learning process.
Becoming a Child Again
The best way to learn quickly as an adult is to embrace the mindset of a child. Fall in love with the process. Don’t be overly judgmental, stuck in your head, or too self-critical. Let go of rigid expectations and focus on enjoying the journey.
A healthy mind and body will pave the way for a fulfilling Kuchipudi experience. At Kritya, we’re here to guide you, no matter your starting point. So if you’ve ever thought it’s too late to begin, let us remind you—it never is.
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